tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85743169682467171872017-07-29T04:48:05.198-05:00An Appetite for LifeDaniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-23760708567310711952012-09-19T18:48:00.000-05:002012-09-19T18:48:11.872-05:00Why I Support the NYC Soda Ban<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p> <br /><div class="MsoNormal">Ever since news broke last week about the New York City’s ban on the sale of large sodas (anything over 16 oz), I’ve been surprised by the reactions of those closest to me. I, being someone that has just started a graduate program in public health and plan to work in obesity prevention research and policy making, immediately supported the ban and applauded NYC and Mayor Bloomberg. Yet many of the people who I’m closest to and love dearly (and who I know to be smart, logical, and compassionate people) are against it. They don’t get the reasoning behind it, feel that it’s stupid, feel that it’s pointless, feel that it’s constrictive. I disagree, and here is why…</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">From what I gather, there are two main camps that have issues with the soda ban—people who drink soda and feel that they are being imposed upon, and those who disagree with the regulation on principle and believe the government shouldn’t restrict individual choice.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To the soda drinkers:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">First off, I know you aren’t stupid, and I know that you know that soda isn’t good for you. But just in case, here are a few highlights to remind you why you should maybe think about switching to water…</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal">Empty calories- a 12 oz can of Coke or Sprite contains 140 calories, and a 12 oz can of Sunkist or Mountain Dew delivers 170 calories. Even worse, these calories are not registered appropriately by your body, so you don’t get full from them. At least if you eat a candy bar, your body will realize it.</li><li class="MsoNormal">High amounts of sugar (and with it, increased Type 2 Diabetes risk)- a 12 oz can of Coke contains 39 g of sugar (which is equal to 2.5 TABLESPOONS of sugar). A 12 oz can of Mountain Dew contains 46 g (almost 3 tablespoons). Again, you’d be better off with a Snickers bar (28 g sugar =1.75 tablespoons)</li><li class="MsoNormal">Acid in soda wears away enamel in your teeth and causes cavities</li></ol><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Okay, so let’s say you know all of that, and you still want to drink a soda, and you just can’t/don’t want to limit yourself to a smaller portion size…</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">With the NYC Soda Ban, there is nothing stopping you from getting TWO 16 oz bottles of soda. Or you can buy a 6 oz drink at McDonald’s and get a refill. However, both of those options requires you, the consumer, to make the CONSCIOUS decision to get more. Making the split decision to upgrade to a large soda instead of a medium while at the drive thru is too simple to do, especially when you are able to do so for only pennies more. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Having to buy two separate drinks also gives you a LOGICAL and HEALTHY point at which to stop drinking! Instead of having a huge soda in front of you that you start mindlessly drinking until it’s all gone, you will have to consciously get up and go get a refill or open up a second bottle. At that point you can evaluate your consumption and decide whether to drink more. One of the great things about this regulation is that it makes people who will still drink soda more aware of how much they are drinking. It isn’t saying don’t drink—it’s saying drink LESS.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To the second camp, the people who think that government should stay out of the free market and that people should be able to buy what they want to buy, let’s imagine a scenario, that although a tad silly, I hope proves a point:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Today, a fair amount of people go the gas station from time to time and buy a standard pack of gummy bears to eat. An average gas station size bag of gummy bears weighs approximately 5.3 oz. Most people don’t eat gummy bears every day-- it’s considered a treat, right? You might mow down a bag every so often, but probably not every day, and definitely not multiple times every day.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hggb_CR5L9Y/UFpUrrUBI5I/AAAAAAAAAP0/cQd3ZPwVqEg/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hggb_CR5L9Y/UFpUrrUBI5I/AAAAAAAAAP0/cQd3ZPwVqEg/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now imagine that by 2040, nearly half of the US population eats not only a bag of gummy worms everyday, but the equivalent of 3 bags of gummy worms (15 oz worth), all sold in ONE BIG BAG.&nbsp; And some people really, really like gummy bears and buy a huge bear each day that weights 80 oz. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBD5uaspsv0/UFpVEQNXm8I/AAAAAAAAAQU/t_MAPAezbIk/s1600/worlds-largest-gummy-bear-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBD5uaspsv0/UFpVEQNXm8I/AAAAAAAAAQU/t_MAPAezbIk/s320/worlds-largest-gummy-bear-2.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://giantgummybears.com/images/products/detail/IMG_0500.jpg"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1026" type="#_x0000_t75" alt="" href="http://giantgummybears.com/images/products/detail/IMG_0500.jpg" target="&quot;_blank&quot;" style='width:217pt;height:330pt' o:button="t"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/daniellemeadowcroft/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image003.jpg" o:href="http://giantgummybears.com/images/products/display/IMG_0500.jpg"/></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><br /><!--[endif]--></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Some people may only want a 5 oz bag of gummy bears, but have difficulty finding stores that sell such a small portion. So they get a larger bag and find themselves eating the whole thing because it’s just there. Or, maybe they go into a store wanting a 20 oz bag, but find they can get 30 oz for only pennies more (or maybe even the same price), so they upgrade to the larger size. Again, they didn’t really want the extra gummy bears, but they end up eating them because they were essentially free (and let’s face it, they taste amazing). </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now, I think we can all agree that if this was America’s current situation, it would be time to curb the damn gummy bear consumption in this country. There would be no godly reason that someone should be eating that many gummy bears every single day, let alone that someone should even be able to purchase a 80 oz gummy bear. If someone really wants that much gummy bear, they can buy multiple bags, and the Gummy Bear Industry wouldn't be any worse off for it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately, the current soda situation in America is not too far off from the scenario above (and actually, it’s a lot worse situation since soda doesn’t even fill you up like gummy bears do). The gummy bear ounces above are pretty consistent with the soda ounces that are ingested by the average American, both in the past and today. The original McDonald’s fountain drink served in 1955 was 7 oz (which is smaller than the kiddy size served today). A McDonald’s small today is 16 oz, a medium is 21 oz, and a large is 32 oz. Currently, the average amount of soda drank per capita, per day is 15 oz. And 7/11’s current Double Big Gulp is 50 oz—although they once sold a Team Gulp size that topped out at a crazy 128 oz. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">In our pretend Gummy Bear obsessed world, it would be time for the government to step up, look out for its citizens, and put an end to the craziness. Instituting a law like the NYC’s Soda Ban wouldn’t stop people from eating gummy bears (it wouldn’t even aim to do so), but it would ensure that portion sizes would be more appropriate, and the healthier choice would become an easier choice. True, people could no longer buy a World’s Largest Gummy Bear or even a 15 oz bag worth, but are they really being hurt by that? They would still have access to smaller 5 oz bags of gummy bears, and those who really wanted to ingest more gummy bears could absolutely do so by buying multiple bags. However, in order to do so, they will have to make a conscious decision to eat more, and they will have to pay more for it-- neither of which I believe is too much to ask. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The NYC Soda Ban isn’t perfect, and it isn’t a cure-all. Yes, people will have to make adjustments to the way they do business and the way they live their lives, but I don’t think that should prevent NYC from trying a very worthwhile policy initiative. In addition, there will have to be a lot of other policies and health education programs implemented to truly make a different in the NYC obesity rates, but a soda ban is one small piece of the puzzle that aims to improve one huge risk factor of obesity.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I know I haven’t given you any hard facts or quoted any research that shows that a soda ban will work, but it exists if you look for it. I didn’t want to present scientific evidence however, because I think to the average person who doesn’t really give a rip about science, and just wants to be able to drink a damn soda, it’ll be lost. Which is absolutely okay. I wholeheartedly think the fundamental reason why we have such an issue with obesity/chronic disease epidemics and why we struggle to beat it is that we have made health too hard to understand, too difficult and confusing to achieve. I hope to change that in some way in my career as a public health professional. If you have questions or rebuttals, feel free to ask/comment/yell. Discourse is what this country needs to solve our nation’s issues, along with compassion and common sense. </div><!--EndFragment-->Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-46734421173242225352012-04-01T21:21:00.000-05:002012-05-14T21:21:39.726-05:00I climbed to the top...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">March 17, 2012: American Lung Association Fight for Air Climb in Milwaukee, WI</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-at92bE4EB6o/T7Gq9aE_WCI/AAAAAAAAAPI/74knAOzxDl0/s640/427732_10101182807082007_8625654_67648644_1006274758_n.jpg" width="464" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp; </div><br />Official Time: 11:51 minutes<br />Official Distance: 47 floors = 94 flights = 1,034 steps<br /><br />I signed up for this charity climb after my friend Heather expressed interest in training for it together. There was a minimum donation that was required to climb, which was fairly easy for me to accomplish. I got an email a few days prior to the climb with my climb time, which was mercifully late in the day. Check-in was super simple, it took only a few minutes, and it was really well organized. Only complaint is that they ran out of small t-shirts and most of the food by the time we climbed.<br /><br />They took climbers to the stairs in groups of 20 or so, and then started everyone up the stairs 10 seconds apart. That helped keep congestion to a minimum, however the stairwell was A LOT narrower than I expected it would be, so it was still hard at times to pass people. It was also <u>really</u> muggy and hot, but you can't really fault them for it since it was an unseasonably warm March day, and stairs just aren't built with proper ventilation for physical activity. Lots of people were having trouble breathing, and I quickly realized after a few flights that I would be walking, not running, the stairs. Volunteers were great, and had cheers, water, and fans ready for us when possible.<br /><br />Personally, the climb seemed to go by really quickly-- I was surprised to find it only took me 12 minutes to finish. I guess I expected it would take a lot longer for some reason. My pace seems SUPER slow though compared to the winning male who finished in 6 minutes... and then he climbed it 5 more times... Crazy! On the other end of the spectrum, I saw a fair amount of people climbing with inhalers or canes, which was also very inspiring to me.<br /><br />Overall, I HIGHLY recommend trying a climbing event sometime, because it's a unique challenge, and if it's for a charity, that's an added bonus! Personally, I probably won't do this event again, just because it was too long of a drive to Milwaukee for just 12 minutes of event. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAk3Io-R_DQ/T7GsELwGryI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ASXPcYCEXGM/s1600/417732_10151412175950714_503595713_23652855_2135407683_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAk3Io-R_DQ/T7GsELwGryI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ASXPcYCEXGM/s640/417732_10151412175950714_503595713_23652855_2135407683_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the climb!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-71250080070518009492012-02-15T18:34:00.001-06:002012-05-14T21:35:41.126-05:00Milwaukee Fight for Air Climb 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5m7q1FTMFNE/TzxK7kU6OpI/AAAAAAAAANg/3fFtypylU4s/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5m7q1FTMFNE/TzxK7kU6OpI/AAAAAAAAANg/3fFtypylU4s/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>On March 17th, I will be participating in Milwaukee's 2012 Fight for Air Climb. The next day I will be unable to move on my sofa, crippled from just running up 47 floors of stairs, which is equal to 94 flights or 1,034 steps. Or this entire building...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8UGZsoaP_k/TzxL3RunM3I/AAAAAAAAANo/7PJ818gaXN0/s1600/USBankCenter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8UGZsoaP_k/TzxL3RunM3I/AAAAAAAAANo/7PJ818gaXN0/s1600/USBankCenter.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />But I don't get to wait until then to start suffering.&nbsp; Between now and then, I will be getting my body in shape by getting in as many squats and lunges as possible and running myself ragged up as many stairwells as I can find. All in the name of charity!!!<br /><br />Hopefully I've made you feel guilty/inspired enough, because I need to raise at least $100 as part of my entry. To support me and the American Lung Association's fight against lung cancer, emphysema, asthma, and air pollution, you may donate here at the following link:<a href="http://ala.convio.net/site/TR/Climb/ALAUM_Upper_Midwest?px=4803759&amp;pg=personal&amp;fr_id=4760" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://action.lung.org/site/TR/Climb/ALAUM_Upper_Midwest?px=4803759&amp;pg=personal&amp;fr_id=4760" target="_blank">http://action.lung.org/site/TR/Climb/ALAUM_Upper_Midwest?px=4803759&amp;pg=personal&amp;fr_id=4760</a><br /><br /><br />Thank you and wish me luck!<br /><br /><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-22467879525891892972012-02-12T11:34:00.004-06:002012-05-14T21:36:07.796-05:00Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto<div style="text-align: left;">Risotto is the perfect meal for nights when you have a little extra time to make dinner and are craving a hot, comforting meal. Although you will have to stand at the stove and continuously stir the rice for about 20 minutes, the resulting creamy texture is well worth the effort. This recipe includes asparagus, mushrooms, and spinach, although you can adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables such as peppers, broccoli, peas, tomatoes, or artichokes. You can also try including ham or sausage, and swap the Parmesan cheese for feta or Gorgonzola. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4851_mE8MxA/Tzf17SGKQAI/AAAAAAAAANQ/Qi2WIe8J8O8/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4851_mE8MxA/Tzf17SGKQAI/AAAAAAAAANQ/Qi2WIe8J8O8/s640/photo-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />1 onion, diced<br />1 tablespoon olive oil<br />1 cup arborio rice<br />6 oz white wine (1 normal glass)<br />3 cups water or broth<br />10-15 stalks asparagus, cut into thirds<br />20 mushroom slices<br />1 cup spinach<br />Salt and pepper<br /><br />30 g (about 1/4 cup) freshly shredded parmesan cheese<br />1 tablespoon butter<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />1. Add olive oil to non-stick pan. Set to medium high heat.<br />2. Once oil is hot, add diced onions. Saute for 2-3 minutes until they have softened a little.<br />3. In a seperate saucepan, heat 3 cups water or broth until steaming hot, but not boiling<br />4. Add rice to pan with onions and mix well. Allow rice to roast for 2-3 minutes. Do not allow rice to develop color.<br />5. Add wine, 1/2 a cup at a time, to the rice. Stir until wine is fully absorbed.<br />6. Start adding hot broth or water to the wine 1/2 cup a time. Continue to stir the liquid into the rice and only add more broth or water once the last addition was mostly absorbed (should take a minute or two). This process of adding liquid and stirring should take about 20 minutes (add the vegetables at 10 minutes). Over time, the starch from the rice will start to leave the rice and form a creamy sauce around the rice.<br />8. Add salt and pepper, butter, and Parmesan cheese and stir well until creamy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K5UWYEFPMas/Tzf242gdY7I/AAAAAAAAANY/IaFL4XzFYQs/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K5UWYEFPMas/Tzf242gdY7I/AAAAAAAAANY/IaFL4XzFYQs/s640/photo-3.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0eYhswSrpLw/Tzf14rpLkWI/AAAAAAAAANI/TAW2nhGzR3U/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-63438741479552937752012-02-05T22:15:00.004-06:002012-05-14T21:36:21.503-05:00Crockpot Veggie ChiliIf you are like most people, you probably find it difficult to cook a healthy meal at the end of a long day. Maybe you feel this way every night, maybe it's only after really stressful days, but everyone feels this way at least once in awhile.<br /><br />To prepare for those nights where you'd rather call for pizza delivery or stop at the drive-thru, it's important to keep an arsenal of easy and quick dinner options on hand. This super easy, super nutritious, and super cheap vegetarian chili is perfect for days when you already know in the morning that you are not going to want to cook that night. Just throw the following ingredients in a crock-pot, set it to low, and cook for 6-8 hours (or on high from 3-4 hours). Then go to work and return to the smell of good home cooking.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e7htvu0hoDU/Ty9TDPIQHJI/AAAAAAAAANA/hUDE1psMJ_U/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e7htvu0hoDU/Ty9TDPIQHJI/AAAAAAAAANA/hUDE1psMJ_U/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />2 (14 oz) can diced or whole tomatoes<br />1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, drained<br />2 medium to large zucchini, thinly sliced<br />1 onion<br />2 stalks celery<br />1 red bell pepper<br />1 green bell pepper<br />1 green chile pepper, diced (no seeds for a milder chili, add seeds for hotter chili)<br />1/3 cup chili powder<br />2 cloves garlic, minced<br />1 tablespoon dried oregano<br />2 teaspoons ground cumin<br />1 teaspoon salt<br /><br />Add a sprinkle of cheese on top if desired<br /><br />Adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/slow-cooker-vegetable-chili/" target="_blank">All Recipes</a><br /><br />Makes 6 servings, 150 calories per serving<br /><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-62179765677235156172012-02-05T21:37:00.000-06:002012-05-14T21:41:15.290-05:00My favorite things: Amy's Spinach Feta Pocket<div style="text-align: left;">For mornings when I forgot to pack my lunch for the next day and need to quickly grab something nutritious, one of my favorite meal options are Amy's Spinach Feta Pockets. This combination of whole wheat crust, creamy spinach, and feta cheese is a perfect way to get a dose of vegetables into your lunch. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class="fancyboximg" href="http://www.amys.com/images/uploads/products/large/000093.jpg" id="img-000093"><img alt="Spinach Feta in a Pocket Sandwich" class="float-left" src="http://www.amys.com/images/uploads/products/000093.jpg" />&nbsp;</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Each pocket contains 260 cals, 9g fat, 590mg sodium, 11g protein, and ample amounts of calcium and iron. 83% of the ingredients are organic, and all of them are natural. There is a bit of tofu in here too, which increases the amount of protein, but I promise you can't taste it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Compare to this:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">www.amys.com</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-17241155425128404602012-02-01T18:39:00.000-06:002012-05-14T21:36:50.510-05:00My favorite things: Yasso Frozen Greek YogurtI enjoy my desserts, so whenever I'm craving a sweet treat, Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurts are on the top of my list as a healthy option.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<img height="196" id="il_fi" src="http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_loc890QAEq1qm3ir4o1_r1_500.png" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="500" /></div><br />They are super creamy and packed with flavor. Each bar is only 70 calories and contains 6g of protein and 15% of your daily calcium requirement. There is no added sugar or corn syrup in these, which makes these WAY healthier than other "fruit" bars. They come in three flavors: strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry, all of which taste great. They also have a new line of smoothie packs, which are currently at Costco, and hopefully will be coming to more stores soon. Each box of 4 bars retails for a little less than $5, and in the Madison area, I know you can find them at Copps. <br /><br />See how they stack up against competitors:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Yasso Strawberry Frozen Greek Yogurt Bar: 70 cals, 10g sugar, 6g protein, 15% calcium </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Dole Strawberry Fruit Bar: 90 cals, 22g sugar, 0 protein, 0% calcium </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Blue Bunny Strawberry Banana Frozen Yogurt, 1/2 cup: 110 cals, 18g sugar, 3g protein, 10% calcium </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Find more information at <a href="http://www.teamyasso.com/">www.teamyasso.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-35723135689933477342011-12-18T19:20:00.000-06:002012-05-14T21:37:16.211-05:00My favorite things: Rustic Crust Pizza Sauce Packets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">This product gets my recommendation because not only is it healthy, but it's also super convenient. I always have a problem using a full can of pizza sauce, so I love how these sauce packets each fit one pizza. Even though they cost more than the average can of pizza sauce, I personally always end up wasting part of a jar, so I reduce waste overall by buying these packets. I buy these at Willy St Co-op, but according to their website, you can also find them at HyVee and Woodman's.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<img height="320" id="il_fi" src="https://secure.petersimports.com/images/products/794716911018.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="180" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">The nutrition of this sauce is also very impressive: it contains very natural ingredients: water, tomatoes, olive oil, evaporated cane juice, salt, vinegar, and various spices-- and no corn syrup! Each packet is 80 calories and contains 2.5 g healthy fat, and only 5g sugar and 460g sodium.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Compare it with this similar product: </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Old World Pizza Sauce Packs-&nbsp; 80 cals, 2.5 healthy fat, 5g sugar, 460g sodium, no corn syrup<br />vs.<br />Boboli Sauce Packs- 100 cals, 0g healthy fat, 16g sugar, 720g sodium, high fructose corn syrup</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">More info at <a href="http://www.rusticcrust.com/">www.rusticcrust.com</a></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-59099632599780186462011-11-12T14:36:00.001-06:002012-05-14T21:37:30.201-05:00Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Well, fall is definitely here in Wisconsin, whether we like it or not. It was pretty darn chilly in our apartment this morning, and immediately upon waking, I wanted to eat something delicious that would warm me up.<br /><br />Looking through the cupboards, the only thing I could find that fit the bill was oatmeal. Unfortunately whenever I try to make oatmeal, it never fails to turn out as a sticky heap of bland mush that I have to choke down. It's just one of those foods that I have never been able to get right, no matter how hard I try. But it's worth it to keep experimenting, because not only are oats one of the cheapest breakfast foods on the market, but they boast so many amazing health benefits:<br /><ul><li> Can reduce levels of bad cholesterol</li><li>Are rich in fiber to fill you up quickly and regulate your blood sugar throughout the day</li><li>Contain antioxidants which help prevent chronic disease such as heart disease and cancer</li></ul><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JM46p0U8q4I/Tr7Y7odoAUI/AAAAAAAAAMI/wmjVGYfnabw/s1600/photo-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JM46p0U8q4I/Tr7Y7odoAUI/AAAAAAAAAMI/wmjVGYfnabw/s640/photo-6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Determined that I was going to find a way to make oatmeal delicious, I searched the internet and stumbled upon this gem of a recipe for Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal. It was the best oatmeal I've ever tasted, warm and gooey without being mushy, with a crunch topping of sugared walnuts and melted butter. Even my husband who wrinkles his nose at oatmeal willingly ate it after he saw how it turned out.<br />&nbsp; <br />Try it the next time you have a few extra minutes available on a cold fall or winter morning -- you won't be disappointed!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup old fashioned oats</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp cinnamon</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp nutmeg</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tsp vanilla</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tbsp melted butter</div><div style="text-align: left;">3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree</div><div style="text-align: left;">3/4 cup water or milk</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the topping:</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 cup chopped walnuts</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tbsp melted butter</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />1. Preheat oven to 375. Grease 4 individual ramekins.</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. In a medium sized bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and spices.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Melt butter in small bowl in microwave. Add vanilla, pumpkin puree, and water or milk. Whisk until combined.</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Pour pumpkin mixutre into the bowl of oats. Stir until evenly combined</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Add oats evenly to ramekins</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Place ramekins on baking sheet and put into oven</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Bake for 10 minutes.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Add toppings to each ramekin and continue to bake for an additional 7 minutes</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Let sit for 5 minutes and serve</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Serves 2-4</div><div style="text-align: left;">Adapted from <a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2009/09/pumpkin-pie-oatmeal.html" target="_blank">Good Life Eats</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NRh4Zf_mxaA/Tr7Y5njBTJI/AAAAAAAAAL4/OhFFXTf2J2o/s1600/photo-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cICj2o4KaOA/Tr7Y6tySnCI/AAAAAAAAAMA/maI4064z8zo/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cICj2o4KaOA/Tr7Y6tySnCI/AAAAAAAAAMA/maI4064z8zo/s640/photo-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sSVe6yfxUn0/Tr7Y4BA5rEI/AAAAAAAAALw/eGYA3Q7PO1A/s640/photo-2.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect for making studying for the GREs a little less boring!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-36901988318165169832011-10-23T19:58:00.000-05:002012-02-01T20:36:39.431-06:00Spinach Chicken Pizza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Tonight was one of those nights where I just didn't feel like cooking dinner. We just finished cleaning the kitchen, and I really couldn't stand the thought of having to clean it again. Half of our laundry still sat dirty in the hamper, and the last hours of my weekend were winding down. All I wanted to do was call for pizza delivery and sit and wait to be fed. Luckily, I have contingency plans for nights like these. <br /><br />This recipe for homemade pizza is almost as easy as calling for delivery. To save time, I use pre-made <a href="http://www.boboli.com/BoboliProduct.aspx?upc=7313001239" target="_blank">Boboli 100% Whole Wheat Crusts</a>* and pre-portioned sauce packs by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rusticcrust.com/pizza-sauce-pack.html" target="_blank">Rustic Crust</a>.<br />The only slightly messy part of this recipe is cooking the chicken, so omit it if you want to make dinner extra easy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtUHCWV89Yo/Trc5Xv0JU0I/AAAAAAAAALY/votiB6lbvzk/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtUHCWV89Yo/Trc5Xv0JU0I/AAAAAAAAALY/votiB6lbvzk/s640/photo-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spinach Chicken Pizza</span></div><br />1/4 lb chicken breast, cubed<br />1 tbsp Olive Oil<br />1 tbsp Minced garlic<br />Salt, pepper to taste<br />Italian Seasoning<br />1 pre-made pizza crust*<br />1/4 cup pizza sauce<br />1/4 cup Feta Cheese<br />A few handfuls fresh spinach<br /><br /><br />1. Preheat oven to proper temperature (450 degrees for the Boboli crust)<br />2. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to skillet. Heat to medium high <br />3. Once hot, add chicken and saute until fully cooked and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes<br />4. Remove skillet from heat<br />5. Spread pizza sauce over crust in an even layer<br />6. Cover pizza with spinach and sprinkle with feta cheese<br />7. Bake in oven until cheese is slightly melted and crust is golden brown on the edges (8-10 minutes for Boboli crust)<br /><br />*If you have extra time or want to avoid the preservatives, you could choose to make your own dough or buy fresh premade dough from a supermarket or pizza shop<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEQuQrCz47g/Trc50rzD14I/AAAAAAAAALg/jQIQeCAK4kg/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEQuQrCz47g/Trc50rzD14I/AAAAAAAAALg/jQIQeCAK4kg/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-55000137426370713832011-10-16T22:37:00.000-05:002012-02-01T20:29:10.303-06:00Get into the habit of being healthy!<div style="font-family: inherit;">"Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." <br /><br />This quote was printed on my old apartment complex's workout room wall, right in front of the treadmills. I spent a lot of hours staring at that quote as I became a runner in the winter of 2010. I usually didn't give the quote itself much thought, instead concentrating on the shape of one letter or another as I listened to music and ran. Today, out of the blue, this quote came to mind as I ran around my neighborhood, and I was struck how true it had turned out to be for me.<br /><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">When I first started running in 2010, I had all the motivation in the world-- it was my New Year's Resolution to lose weight that year. I only had about 10 pounds to lose, but it was the same 10 pounds I had been telling myself I was going to lose for years. But this time was different. I was better educated on nutrition and exercise. I had the support of friends and family. And I was getting ready to graduate college in a few months and wanted to be ready for my new life.<br /><br />I ended up having a lot of success that spring, losing over 15 pounds. However I never got to the point where exercise and proper nutrition seemed natural to me-- it never became a habit. To me, being healthy merely meant struggling to resist doing the unhealthy things I really wanted to be doing.&nbsp; I only ran because it burned calories, and I only ate vegetables because they were low in calories.<br /><br />Unfortunately motivation only carries you so far. Once I found myself at my goal weight, my motivation to continue running or have proper nutrition <br /><br />Since a healthy lifestyle was only the means to an end, and since I had reached my endpoint, there was no reason any longer to struggle to maintain this lifestyle. And over the next couple of months, I backslid, starting 2011 the same as I had 2010, a little overweight and plenty discouraged.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">This past spring, I was once again discouraged and motivated enough to start a diet and fitness regimen. To help give myself motivation, I signed up to run a half marathon in August (that's 13.1 miles for you non-runners). Throughout the spring and summer, I trained hard to complete what was, in the eyes of my friends and family, an unbelievable challenge. At times, training was fun. At other times, it was painful and tiring. For the last month of training, I struggled through a leg injury that at one point made me want to stop running for good. But I persevered, and somewhere in the process, running became a habit.<br /><br />Now, almost 2 months post half-marathon (I did finish it by the way, in 2 hours and 34 minutes), I am still running, even though I have absolutely no motivation. Winter is coming up, so there no bikinis or shorts to fit into any time soon. I don't have any weight to lose. It's cold and dark and rainy outside a lot of the time. Some days I can find absolutely no reason to run, but yet I continue to do it-- and I actually enjoy it. In fact, if I'm too busy to get a run in, I get annoyed and upset. It's become part of my routine, something I expect and look forward to.<br /><br />The ultimate lesson here is that it's going to take time to fully integrate proper nutrition and exercise into your life. Desire and motivation to change is only the starting point, and the journey from that point to your ultimate goal of being habituated to be healthy may take awhile. But, if you are persistent and open to learning and growing, a healthy lifestyle will eventually become a habit and seem as normal as your unhealthy habits now <br /><br /></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-82231124960244185692011-10-10T23:10:00.000-05:002011-11-07T18:16:06.308-06:00Healthy Recipes | Sunny Asparagus<div style="font-family: inherit;">I have a confession to make-- I don't eat enough veggies. Believe me, I know all about the role that the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals found in vegetables play in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. I get it, really I do. Yet I still, week after week, come up short of the recommended daily intake of vegetables. And it's not that I don't like vegetables. I actually love most of them. So why don't I eat more of them? <br /><br />It come down to laziness. Sigh. Vegetables, with the exception of baby carrots, aren't portable like fruit (which I have no problem getting enough of). Salads are great, but honestly there are only so many salads a girl can take before she needs a break. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7Qv-rCJBCTU/TXBua77luzI/AAAAAAAAAEc/0dPgAA41iQY/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0004.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">The current recommended intake of vegetables is only 3-5 servings per day. It honestly isn't very hard to meet or even exceed that guideline, if you only make an effort.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1 serving of vegetable equals...</div><ul style="font-family: inherit;"><li>1 cup leafy greens, such as spinach or lettuce</li><li>10 baby carrots</li><li>5 broccoli florets</li><li>6 spears asparagus</li><li>1/2 cup beans, peas, zucchini</li></ul><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />So, do as I say and not as I do and start eating more veggies! Try to branch out form the usual broccoli, potatoes, or corn and try kale, artichokes, or sweet potatoes. Have a salad with dinner each night, and switch it up by trying different varieties of lettuce such as Romaine, spinach, or endive. Try adding vegetables to your breakfast by making a pepper and mushroom omelet, or try the following recipe for a gourmet looking meal fit for a lazy Sunday morning.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HsIN9aiMxjk/TXBuTCULX4I/AAAAAAAAAEY/_QLCt21tOD0/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0024.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">Sunny Asparagus</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> </span></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">1 pound asparagus, with ends snapped off</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">2 eggs</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">1 tablespoon butter</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">2 tablespoons olive oil</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">Salt and pepper, as needed</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">Grated Parmesan Cheese, as needed</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 27px;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /><br /></div></div></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span">1. Preheat oven to 500 degrees</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">2. Place asparagus in a casserole dish in a single layer. Drizzle on olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roll asparagus around to evenly coat each spear</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">3. Place dish into the oven for 10 minutes</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">4. While asparagus is baking, place butter into medium sized frying pan and heat to medium</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">5. Once butter is melted, crack eggs gently into pan. Be sure to keep egg whites separated. Cover and cook until whites have set and yolk is still runny (if you prefer a less runny egg, cook a little bit longer)</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">6. Remove asparagus from oven. Transfer spears to a plate and place fried egg on top of asparagus</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">Serves 2</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hiioD2St4Yo/TXBuvWe2k6I/AAAAAAAAAEk/dCicfTs8FNo/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0028.jpg" width="640" /></div></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-49631708117774027932011-09-25T18:13:00.000-05:002011-11-04T18:18:18.832-05:00Healthy Recipes | Walnut Cauliflower Pasta<div style="font-family: inherit;">To the majority of Americans, a pasta dinner means a comforting plate full of refined spaghetti noodles,&nbsp; drenched in tomato sauce and topped with processed Parmesan cheese. Simple, delicious, and inexpensive, it's the classic standby meal. Unfortunately, it doesn't provide much nutritional value, other than the lycopene in tomato sauce and the minimal fiber and vitamins found in the noodles.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SAN7ZfIKr2A/TYZZtSRhT7I/AAAAAAAAAF4/mFLAcVfbb38/s640/IMG_6004_0452.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Rest assured, pasta can be a nutritious meal if you only make a few adjustments to your normal recipe. Start off by making small changes to your next pasta dinner. Try adding some diced onions, peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to your next spaghetti meal. Once you get a little more adventurous, start experimenting with new pasta dishes with a larger variety of ingredients. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">The following recipe is one I highly recommend if you are looking to expand your pasta dinner repertoire.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><a name='more'></a><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">Walnut Cauliflower Pasta</div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><link href="file://localhost/Users/daniellemeadowcroft/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Worstveld Sling"; panose-1:0 2 0 5 6 6 0 0 2 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --></style> </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><link href="file://localhost/Users/daniellemeadowcroft/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Worstveld Sling"; panose-1:0 2 0 5 6 6 0 0 2 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --></style> </div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1 head cauliflower</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 onion</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4 cloves garlic, minced (alternatively you can use jarred minced garlic)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4 servings pasta (I suggest penne, rotini, or farfalle)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Extra virgin olive oil</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Salt and pepper</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1 pinch red pepper flakes</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">White wine vinegar</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Juice from 1/2 lemon</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup toasted walnuts</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4 oz Feta cheese</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><link href="file://localhost/Users/daniellemeadowcroft/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Worstveld Sling"; panose-1:0 2 0 5 6 6 0 0 2 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --></style> </div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1. Place enough water to cook desired amount of pasta in a large pot. Salt to taste. Bring to boil. While waiting for water to boil, slice&nbsp;onion, cut cauliflower into florets, and mince garlic</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">2. Once water is boiling, add pasta and stir until boiling</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">3. Heat large skillet to medium high heat. Add olive oil and saute cauliflower. Once cauliflower beings to soften, season with salt and pepper. Add onions and red pepper flakes. Cauliflower should begin to brown a bit</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4. Add garlic once cauliflower is slightly more cooked, but still crunchy</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">5. Add a few drops of vinegar and lemon juice and stir </div><div style="font-family: inherit;">6. Add the toasted walnuts</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">7. Once pasta is fully cooked, drain and add to skillet. Drizzle olive oil on top of pasta, enough to fully coat pasta. Stir ingredients. Sprinkle crumbled Feta on top and serve</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Serves 4</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Adapted from <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2008/03/pasta-with-cauliflower-walnuts-and-feta/">Smitten Kitchen</a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1Et5vYr_ojo/TYZZwyOarDI/AAAAAAAAAF8/j-QuO8JYheY/s640/IMG_6010_0458.jpg" width="640" />&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Nutritional Highlights </span></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 20pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Walnuts- loaded with omega-3s which have been shown to act as anti-inflammatories, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and arthritis </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Cauliflower- packed with antioxidants to prevent cancer, this low-calorie cruciferous vegetables also provides plenty of fiber and folic acid</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Feta Cheese- lower in fat and calories than many other varieties of cheese, feta is high in calcium and may aid in weight loss</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Whole wheat pasta- complete with bran, germ, and endosperm, whole wheat pasta boasts three times the fiber of refined pasta and incalculably more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Olive Oil- monounsatured fatty acids found in this oil have been found to reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-20851474277681913012011-09-19T14:23:00.000-05:002011-11-07T19:01:34.154-06:00Healthy Recipes | Dark Chocolate Orange Peels<h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="font-family: inherit;"> </h3><div class="post-header" style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">I have a huge sweet tooth. For me to stay on track with my diet, it's important for me to have a lot of healthy, wholesome dessert options available to eat. Dark chocolate, either alone or with fruit, is one of my favorites. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Besides being incredibly delicious, it offers many health benefits including antioxidants to fight cancer and unsaturated fats to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Chocolates also stimulates endorphin production and contains serotonin which elevates mood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /></div><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mDx2vfqafbI/TYZVp8PBpuI/AAAAAAAAAFk/rjtCzkp6eXY/s640/IMG_6019_0430.jpg" width="640" /><br /><div class="" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">The higher the cocoa content, the better the health benefit, so I recommend 75% or 85% cocoa. And don't wash down your chocolate with milk-- studies have shown that milk prevents the antioxidants present in chocolate from being absorbed properly by the stomach.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">If you have a little extra time on your hands and want a super natural dark chocolate treat, try these candied orange peels. By boiling fresh orange peels in sweetened water, you can turn what is normally thrown away in the garbage into a sweet and chewy jelly, which is delicious when covered in melted dark chocolate.</div><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xVNvl8Zkrug/TYZP5Y68MjI/AAAAAAAAAFY/q4CiVzeUz3A/s640/IMG_6153_0464.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">Dark Chocolate Orange Peels</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">2-4 naval oranges</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 lb to 1 lb dark chocolate</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup sugar or sugar substitute (I used agave nectar)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1. Slice the ends off oranges. Cut the peel with a knife from one cut end to the other. Carefully peel the orange off in one large section</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">2. Flatten orange peel on cutting board. Cut into thin strips</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">3. Fill medium sized pot half full with water and bring to a boil. Place peels in boiling water for 3 minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;(Now would be a good time to eat the orange you just peeled)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4. Remove peels, rinse under running water, and return to pot. Boil again for 3 minutes</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">5. Remove peels from pot. Discard water in pot and replace with 1 cup fresh water. Add sugar or sugar substitute. Stir</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">6. Bring mixture to simmer. Add orange peels and simmer for 1 hour. Check on and stir from time to time</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">7. Once fully cooked, remove peels from pot and place on rack to cool</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eD_zesWul78/TYZQwczwB7I/AAAAAAAAAFc/29zolYpcZC4/s640/IMG_6029_0440.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">8. If starting with large chunks of baking chocolate, cut into smaller chunks before warming. Heat chocolate in microwave in 1 minute segments, stirring in between each heating period. Do not overheat.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">9. Once melted, dip orange peels in chocolate using a fork. Remove quickly and let cool on rack. Place parchment paper below to catch chocolate drippings. (I cooled directly on parchment paper, which prevented them from forming the proper stick shape). Once chocolate hardens, store in airtight container.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Adapted from <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2006/11/candy-girl/">Smitten Kitchen</a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xD9vZicVC6k/TYZQ719fegI/AAAAAAAAAFg/kXpz1FEwzgw/s640/IMG_6081_0380.jpg" width="640" /> </div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-56748779740973758012011-08-21T20:19:00.000-05:002012-05-14T21:37:48.158-05:00My favorite things: Wholly Guacamole 100 Calorie Snack PacksContrary to popular belief, fat is an integral part of a healthy diet. Fats are used by the body to maintain and build cell membranes and hormones, and proper fat intake has been linked to increased brain, liver, lung, and heart health, along with improved immune functioning. I personally strive to get about 30% of my calories from fat, in order to repair my body after stressing it with exercise, so I am always looking for tasty and healthy way to get fat into my diet.<br /><br />I am in love with Wholly Guacamole, and their 100 calorie snack packs provide an easy, convenient way to enjoy guacamole, while knowing exactly how many calories you are eating. I pair guacamole with whole grain tortilla chips or vegetables such as carrots or broccoli. I also like to use it as a spread on sandwiches in place of mayo.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<img alt="Wholly Guacamole 100 Calorie Snack Pack 6oz - Healthy Guacamole" height="301" src="http://eatwholly.com/images/stories/products/Guac/WG_100Cal_SnackPack_6oz-copy-1.jpg" style="margin-right: 40px;" width="297" /></div><br />Ingredients: Hass avocados and various spices such as jalapenos, vinegar, onion, slat, and garlic. Each pack contains 100 cals, 10 g healthy fat, 3g fiber, 0g sugar, 1g protein, and over 20 vitamins and minerals. <br /><br />In the same amount of Dean's Guacamole as in 1 Wholly Guacamole Snack Pack: 180 cals, 0g fiber, 2g sugar, 2g protein,&nbsp; and lots impossible to pronounce filler ingredients. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.eatwholly.com/">www.eatwholly.com</a>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-33320544307158935822011-08-08T21:20:00.000-05:002012-05-14T21:38:07.249-05:00Healthy Recipes | Steamed Egg Cups<div style="font-family: inherit;">The incredible, edible egg is a complete nutritional package, evolved to be the sole source of nutrition for a growing creature. A single egg is only 70 calories, yet provides 5 grams of protein and all 9 of the essential amino acids. They also contain choline, which is important for proper body system regulation and may help prevent cancer.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hMx3DO9rFPM/TYZWZobNaxI/AAAAAAAAAF0/3DvXJW8VmGA/s640/IMG_6116_0412.jpg" width="640" /> </div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Many people are hesitant to eat eggs because they contain cholesterol. Indeed, the egg yolk does contain about 200 mg cholesterol, which is about two-thirds of the current recommended daily intake.&nbsp; However, despite media reports, the link between cholesterol and heart disease has not been firmly established, and there is evidence from many studies that disproves the theory that high cholesterol intake leads to heart disease. Unless you have been specifically told by a doctor to avoid choelsterol intake, I suggest you consider including egg yolks in your diet, as the majority of the egg's nutrients are present in the yolk</div><br /><div style="font-family: inherit;">Here are some easy, healthy ways to incorporate eggs into your diet:</div><ul style="font-family: inherit;"><li>Scramble them for breakfast with diced peppers and onions</li><li>Bake with spinach and cheese to make light dinner frittata</li><li>Make a western omelet with ham, scallions, and green bell pepper </li></ul><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">If you are looking for an egg recipe that is a little out of the ordinary, try steaming an egg. This is a very simple method with little cleanup. Fill a ramekin with a few fillings, crack in an egg, and steam over simmering water. I made mine with leftover cubed ham and roasted red pepper, but the possibilities to adapt this recipe to your tastes are endless, so feel free to experiment with different fillings.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HYWUq1qBGmg/TYZWJTsndqI/AAAAAAAAAFo/FRGGazuOTYU/s640/IMG_6045_0345.jpg" width="640" /></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><link href="file://localhost/Users/daniellemeadowcroft/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link> <style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Worstveld Sling"; panose-1:0 2 0 5 6 6 0 0 2 0; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-parent:""; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} </style>Steamed Egg Cup</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1 egg</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Roasted red peppers (or fresh red bell pepper)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup cubed, cooked ham</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Olive oil or butter</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Fresh herbs</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Salt and pepper</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Few crumbles of Feta</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;">1. Put a shallow layer of water in the bottom of a skillet or pot. Bring to a simmer</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">2. Coat ramekin with oil or butter</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">3. Place ham and red peppers (or other fillings) in bottom of ramekin</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">4. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">5. Crack egg into ramekin</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">6. Cover ramekin with tin foil and place above steaming water. Place lid over skillet/pot</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">7. Cook until you can shake the ramekin and the egg white does not jiggle (20 minutes if fillings included, 10 minutes if cooking egg alone)</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">8. Remove from steam. Add cheese. Place tin foil back over ramekin and let sit for a minute to allow cheese to melt</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-20730227933905106382011-05-09T20:33:00.000-05:002012-02-01T20:34:39.321-06:00Coconut Date RollsThere is a point in every single day where I am craving something sweet. Most of the time, I can grab a piece of fruit and take care of my craving, but sometimes I need something a little bit more. In the past, I would stash candy in the house for those occasions, but since starting to eat better, I've needed to find healthier, more natural alternatives. This super simple recipe for coconut date rolls has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. You can often find these pre-made at natural food stores, but in my experience, my homemade creations are better than the store bought ones!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="300" id="il_fi" src="http://www.gourmetkoshercooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/coconut-balls.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="400" /></div><span id="goog_1481373820"></span><span id="goog_1481373821"></span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Adapted from The Green Market Baking Book<br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">2 cups fresh unpitted dates* (I recommend&nbsp;the Medjool variety)</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />*It's important to get unpitted dates. I've found pitted dates to be too dried out to form balls properly. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><br />Directions:</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">1. Pit dates by slicing them lengthwise and removing the pit</div><div class="MsoNormal">2. Chop dates thoroughly with knife. Dates are very sticky, so I prefer to use a knife rather than a blender or food processor</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Combine chopped dates and coconut in a bowl</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Form into balls with hands</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 week</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8574316968246717187.post-3171204764788846132011-03-06T14:27:00.006-06:002011-11-04T19:12:27.532-05:00Healthy Recipes | Eggplant Rollatini, Garlic Knots, and Zucchini Sticks<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Having a dinner party can be a lot of fun-- but it's also a lot of work! I learned that yesterday night when I hosted a party for my husband's friends. He found out Friday afternoon that a good friend of his was going to be in town for the weekend, so he asked if I wanted to play host and show off my new cooking skills for a few friends. I was excited to take on the challenge-- but also a little stressed since I'd never planned a dinner party before, and I had been given approximately 24 hours advance notice to plan the menu.<br /><br />After weighing multiple dinner options, I settled on a slightly&nbsp;adventurous menu,&nbsp;that although a little unconventional, ended up being a big hit with both the vegetarians and the meat eaters of the group. We had a lot of laughs, and although my kitchen ended up looking like bomb had exploded in it by the end, I look forward to having friends over again for another party soon!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1MEQw_HYgkc/TXPq_NnaqLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/yMiojlpP6N4/s1600/Healthy_Food_Blog_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1MEQw_HYgkc/TXPq_NnaqLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/yMiojlpP6N4/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0091.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-53PPWFNl91o/TXPo72PTcSI/AAAAAAAAAFA/3U43d9tQX4I/s1600/Healthy_Food_Blog_0126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-53PPWFNl91o/TXPo72PTcSI/AAAAAAAAAFA/3U43d9tQX4I/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0126.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ur7IZ-_ViCM/TXPpCLf_DzI/AAAAAAAAAFE/NjujILGZYak/s1600/Healthy_Food_Blog_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ur7IZ-_ViCM/TXPpCLf_DzI/AAAAAAAAAFE/NjujILGZYak/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0129.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Sticks with Marinara Sauce</span><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Adapted from <a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2009/02/parmesan-crusted-baked-zucchini-sticks.html">Closet Cooking</a><br /><br />Zucchini Sticks:<br />2 zucchini</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/2 cup whole wheat Panko bread crumbs (I used Ian's brand)</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 teaspoon oregano</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/2 cup shredded Parmesan</div><div class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper to taste</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 egg lightly beaten</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Marinara Sauce:</div><div class="MsoNormal">Small jar tomato paste</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 tsp oregano</div><div class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"></span>2. In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and oregano&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Cut zucchini into sticks.&nbsp;Season zucchini with salt and pepper</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. Dip zucchini spears in egg, and then dip into bread crumb bowl</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Place zucchini in single later on baking sheet</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Bake in oven until bread crumbs are golden brown, about 25 minutes.&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal">6. While baking zucchini sticks, place tomato paste in serving bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Serve sauce warm.&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-tk6wFqkY3T8/TXPd3ih2u4I/AAAAAAAAAEw/FHpvcMBgsO4/s1600/191769_575053313508_211700735_33417796_6725410_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-tk6wFqkY3T8/TXPd3ih2u4I/AAAAAAAAAEw/FHpvcMBgsO4/s640/191769_575053313508_211700735_33417796_6725410_o.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YiQglQCiuD8/TXPotHWAfjI/AAAAAAAAAE4/wNKgHKNLNV4/s1600/Healthy_Food_Blog_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YiQglQCiuD8/TXPotHWAfjI/AAAAAAAAAE4/wNKgHKNLNV4/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0106.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Eggplant Rollatini</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Adapted from <a href="http://www.sprinklesofparsley.com/2011/02/eggplant-rollatini.html">Sprinkles of Parsley</a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Makes 9 rolls</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Eggplant Rolls:</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 large eggplants</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 cup flour</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/2 teaspoon salt</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/4 teaspoon pepper</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 eggs</div><div class="MsoNormal">2.5 cups bread crumbs</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Spinach Stuffing:</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 10 oz package of frozen spinach, defrosted and drained</div><div class="MsoNormal">16 oz Ricotta Cheese</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 egg</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/4 teaspoon basil, oregano, and parsley</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/2 teaspoon salt</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 teaspoon minced garlic</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Topping:</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 cup tomato sauce (I used Pomo Doro Tomato Sauce with Basil)</div><div class="MsoNormal">1/4 cup mozzarella cheese</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.</div><div class="MsoNormal">2. Wash eggplant, remove stem, and thinly slice eggplant lengthwise into thin slices (slightly less than 1/4" thick).&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal">3. In small bowl, place flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, lightly beat the eggs. In third bowl, place bread crumbs.</div><div class="MsoNormal">4. Heat large skillet with 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium high heat.</div><div class="MsoNormal">5. Dip eggplant into the flour mixture, then eggs, then breadcrumbs, making sure to completely cover both sides with each dip.</div><div class="MsoNormal">6. Place eggplant slices into skillet and saute for 1 minute on each side, until bread crumbs are golden brown. Transfer eggplant slices to a plate lined with paper towel.</div><div class="MsoNormal">7. Continue process with all eggplant slices, adding more olive oil to skillet as necessary.</div><div class="MsoNormal">8. While eggplant cools, prepare spinach filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and spinach.&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal">9. With each eggplant slice, spoon 2 tablespoons of spinach filling at one end of the eggplant slice. Roll the eggplant starting at the end with the spinach filling. Place rolls seam side down in a lightly greased 9x13 glass baking dish. Use toothpicks to secure rolls if necessary.</div><div class="MsoNormal">10. Pour 2 tablespoons tomato sauce over each roll and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.</div><div class="MsoNormal">11. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes uncovered, until cheese starts to brown.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7pEsqdcTbWw/TXPo1bA5p1I/AAAAAAAAAE8/VCpCIZrlDHY/s1600/Healthy_Food_Blog_0112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7pEsqdcTbWw/TXPo1bA5p1I/AAAAAAAAAE8/VCpCIZrlDHY/s640/Healthy_Food_Blog_0112.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Garlic Knots</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Adapted from <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2010/10/21/itty-bitty-garlic-pumpkin-knots/">Oh She Glows</a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Makes 16 knots</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon cup very warm water</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 tsp instant dry yeast</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 tablespoon agave nectar<br />1 tablespoon olive oil&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal">3/4 teaspoon sea salt</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 tsp dried basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 and 3/4 cups unbleached bread flour</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Garlic Sauce:</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 tablespoons butter, melted</div><div class="MsoNormal">3 garlic cloves, minced</div><div class="MsoNormal">1 tsp parsley</div><div class="MsoNormal">2 tsp Parmesan cheese</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 20pt;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">1. In a large bowl, mix together dry ingredients (yeast, flour, salt, herbs). In another bowl, mix wet ingredients (agave nectar, olive oil, warm water).&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">2. Quickly pour olive oil, agave nectar, and warm water into dry ingredients and mix well.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">3. When mixture starts to dry, transfer dough onto floured surface and knead for 3 minutes until it forms into a ball that is no longer tacky to the touch. If it is too dry, add additional olive oil. If it is too wet, add more flour.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">4. Once the ball is properly formed, put it into an oiled bowl, and cover dough ball in olive oil. Cover bowl with a damp towel and let sit for 2 hours.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">5. After 1.5 hours, preheat oven to 400 degrees and lightly oil a baking sheet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">6. After 2 hours, punch air out of dough and place onto floured surface. Roll dough out into a rectangle. With a pizza cutter, cut strips in dough approximately 3/4" wide by 6" long. Tie a knot with each strip and place onto baking sheet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">7. Bake in oven for 10 minutes until slightly golden brown on the top. Pour garlic sauce over knots and serve while warm. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PhElj2BLvmg/TXPmByysUxI/AAAAAAAAAE0/BFIPQ9NVN1E/s1600/191499_575078283468_211700735_33418166_1281046_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PhElj2BLvmg/TXPmByysUxI/AAAAAAAAAE0/BFIPQ9NVN1E/s640/191499_575078283468_211700735_33418166_1281046_o.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><br /></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02413316824719140657noreply@blogger.com2